Local candidate surveys were conducted annually between 2006-2014. A random sample of candidates are contacted by post each year and asked to complete a survey (since 2012 these have been conducted on-line).  The aim has been to obtain about a thousand usable respondents for each survey.

These survey data provide insights into the people that challenge for local elected office. Candidates contesting every type of principal local authority across England and Wales have been surveyed. The data collection period of 2006 – 2014 covers complete electoral cycles for the London boroughs, metropolitan boroughs, shire counties and districts as well as the unitary councils.

All of the survey questionnaires and reports are available to download.

We offer our profound thanks to all of those candidates that gave freely of their time in completing these surveys.